Mirror Orchid
ophrys speculum
Also known as: ["Mirror Bee Orchid","Speculum Orchid"]
Overview
A terrestrial orchid species native to the Mediterranean region, known for its unique mirror-like lip pattern that mimics female bees.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Ophrys |
| Botanical Name: | Ophrys speculum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially during flowering
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead/damaged foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or spent parts of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves; adjust light exposure gradually if moving plant.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant to new light conditions slowly over a week; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Avoid direct sun; provide bright indirect light; rotate plant for even exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 3–4 weeks in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic orchid mix with perlite and peat moss
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid mix, ensure drainage, maintain slightly acidic pH, avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy in winter.
Maintain moderate temps; protect from drafts; adjust for dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during watering to avoid salt buildup; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or rhizomes; best done during repotting when the plant is actively growing.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide pseudobulbs, ensure each division has roots, pot in fresh medium, water lightly, provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is in its active growth phase.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Orchid mix with perlite for good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for division, but can be used for cuttings if desired.
Timeline
New growth may appear within 4–6 weeks; full establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterile potting medium, pots with drainage holes.
Quick Tips
Divide during repotting, ensure divisions have roots, maintain humidity, avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim leaves just above the node or base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, cut at base, remove dead parts, clean up debris, avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a pot with fresh orchid mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, remove old medium, trim roots, add fresh mix, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering during dormancy in winter; increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, or lead to root damage if below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap if outdoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a mister or humidifier; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, fertilize during growth, avoid dormant period, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphrys speculum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion or contact is not expected to cause adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphrys speculum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion or contact with this orchid species.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphrys speculum, commonly known as the Mirror Orchid, is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically consumed due to its ornamental nature.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Ophrys speculum?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and maintain moderate humidity. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ophrys speculum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its lip pattern mimics female bees, attracting male bees for pollination.
Q: Is Ophrys speculum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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